Autism Society of America Nicole Jorwic, J.D. Senior Director of Public Policy, The Arc of the United States

My Story… Sam and Chris Why change matters to me…. I truly believe that The opportunities for meaningful systems change are great, and community integration for all, no matter their level of need, is closer than ever.

Lifelong Supports Lifelong supports include those that support individuals with autism across their lifespan. They can be many things depending on the person's needs. Lifelong supports can include: Supports for Caregivers;  Housing and residential programs; Meaningful day activities including employment; Other supports needed throughout the lifespan

HCBS Home and Community-based Services (HCBS) provide all these things and more: Respite, in-home supports, etc. Group homes, independent living, supportive housing, etc. Day programs, supported employment, pre- vocational training, etc. Transportation, home modifications, adaptive aids, etc.

Medicaid 101

Medicaid – Current Threats Medicaid Restructuring Currently: States receive Federal Medicaid matching funds as an “entitlement” for services provided under the state plan or approved waivers. The federal match is based on a formula - poorer states receive a higher federal match. restructuring is a permanent change to Medicaid program Restructuring proposals would eliminate the automatic matching funds to the states. Depending on the nature of the restructuring, many federal requirements could be eliminated. Block grants Per capita caps*

EMPOWER Care Act

Money Follows the Person Since 2005 the Money Follows the Person (MFP) rebalancing demonstration has served as a catalyst that enhances existing Medicaid transition services, resulting in 88,000 Medicaid beneficiaries returning to community living. Catalyst for systems change Out of money

HCBS Infrastructure Act

Bill not-yet introduced would provide grant funds to states to help improve their HCBS programs. Funds could be use to: Assist providers in becoming more integrated and person-centered as required by the HCBS Settings Rule; Transportation; Housing; Waiting list reduction? Etc. Will be introduced soon Tell Congress why HCBS is so important and to strengthen HCBS programs

HCBS SETTINGS RULE

HCBS Settings Rule HCBS Settings Rule was finalized in 2014 and requires states to improve HCBS.  Specifically states must: Plan Survey settings Engage stakeholders Help settings comply with Person-Centered requirements Concerns have been raised: Misunderstanding of what it actually means, updated guidance to clarify (no one is being forced out)—Heightened Scrutiny Stakeholders need to be engaged Ask Congress to preserve and strengthen HCBS

Questions? Feel free to contact me: Jorwic@thearc.org